The Variety Boys and Girls of Club of Queens in Astoria was packed Thursday night, as more than 100 people watched young men and women square off against each other in the annual Golden Gloves boxing tournament.

Prior to the event, WFAN radio host John Jastremski - or “JJ After Dark” - spoke about various topics ranging from Phil Jackson to the New York Yankees.

The Golden Gloves program has led the way in promoting amateur boxing in the United States and has produced the majority of competitors for America’s boxing teams in the Pan-Am and Olympic Games.

Executive director of the Boys and Girls Club, Terry Hughes, and Board President Walter Sanchez were excited to host the tournament, as well as showcase the club’s role for kids in the community.

“We teach them how to be leaders,” Sanchez said.

Richmond Hill resident Jacob Castro, 22,has been boxing since he was a little kid, but really began taking it seriously this year. His father Eddie is and ex-fighter and his coach, and he described himself as a boxer that tries to keep his distance and avoid brawls.

Castro lost in the first round last year, but this time he trained hard and advanced to the second round.

“I just love it,” he said. “It’s relaxing. Once I get in the ring, everything else doesn’t matter.”